In today’s epic battle, we’ve got the Nike Pegasus vs. Pegasus Plus.
The Pegasus series has been a legend for decades, but now there’s a new contender in town to shake things up—the Pegasus Plus.
If you’ve been loyal to the classic Pegasus, you’re probably curious: why does Nike have two Pegasus lines? Is the Plus version really worth the hype and the extra cash? Or is the Pegasus Plus just another spin on the original?
In this head-to-head comparison, we’ll dive into what each shoe brings to the table, exploring their key differences and helping you figure out whether you need both in your running shoe rotation or if just one is enough.
Nike Pegasus vs. Pegasus Plus
The Nike Pegasus Plus and Nike Pegasus 41 might share the same family name, but they’re not quite twins—each serves a slightly different purpose.
Ever since the Pegasus Turbo 2 hit the shelves, rumors have swirled every year about the release of the Pegasus Turbo 3. Great news because Nike seems to have replaced the Pegasus Turbo line with the Pegasus Plus line.
Now, the Pegasus Turbo was known for being a fast, super-responsive, and crazy light shoe. But with the Pegasus Plus, things changed—it’s gained a bit of weight, so it doesn’t quite feel like the pure speed demon that the Turbo was.
Before diving into a head-to-head comparison of the Pegasus and Pegasus Plus, let’s quickly revisit what makes the Pegasus so iconic. (And if you’re already well-versed, feel free to hit the jump link below and skip straight to the juicy details!)
Here’s our comparison of the Nike Pegasus Turbo vs. Zoom Fly to get to know the Turbo a little bit.
What is the Nike Pegasus?
In a world where every shoe seems to chase the latest trends—max stack, max cushion, max rocker—it feels like brands are blending their lines into one giant, cushioned blur. But the Pegasus? It’s always marched to the beat of its own drum.
The Pegasus has never been a shoe that bends to whatever’s hot in running at the moment. Instead, it’s stuck to its roots, making small, reliable updates year after year.
So, if you’re not into the whole “max everything” trend and just want a trusty, no-nonsense daily trainer, the Pegasus is your go-to. It’s a shoe that’s held onto its identity, and five key traits have always set it apart:
Versatility
The Pegasus has always been that “do-it-all” everyday shoe. It’s a shoe that should work for anyone, anywhere, and for any type of run.
Zoom Air Units
Now, don’t confuse these with the massive Air units you’d see in an Air Max. The Pegasus has thinner, fiber-filled Zoom Air units that have been a staple of the line for years, offering just the right balance of responsiveness and comfort.
Full Rubber Waffle Outsole
In the last couple of years, some reviewers have commented on the full rubber outsole, saying it’s a drawback. But honestly, I see it as one of the key features that makes the Pegasus… well, the Pegasus!
The full rubber waffle outsole is classic Nike. It doesn’t just add versatility—it means you can take the Pegasus pretty much anywhere. Road, trail, wet, dry—it performs well across the board.
Sure, it adds a bit of weight, but that’s a small price to pay for a shoe that can handle a variety of surfaces. Plus, it’s so iconic to the Pegasus, I can’t imagine Nike ever ditching it.
10mm Drop
The Pegasus has always had a drop of at least 10mm. In fact, earlier models often had even more, like 12mm or higher. It’s part of the shoe’s DNA.
That higher drop isn’t just random, though—it speaks to the versatility of the shoe. Whether you’re an advanced runner or a brand-new runner training for your first 5K, that 10mm drop helps protect your Achilles and gives a smooth, reliable ride for all types of runners.
Could we see a future Pegasus with an 8mm drop? Maybe. But I think 10mm is where this shoe feels most at home.
Accessibility
The Pegasus hits a sweet spot. It’s affordable, but it’s no budget shoe. Part of Nike’s performance line, it’s often the most wallet-friendly option in that category.
And let’s be real—you can walk into pretty much any store that sells Nike and find a pair of Pegs on the shelf. It’s always there, ready for you.
Every year, people complain the Pegasus is boring or needs a tech upgrade. But honestly? I don’t think it needs to change. The Pegasus has found its niche, and Nike knows it. It’s the dependable, no-frills daily trainer runners have relied on for years, and that’s exactly what makes it great.
Make sure you check out our comparison of the Pegasus vs. Hoka Clifton.
Ready for the quick comparison? Let’s dive in!
Nike Pegasus vs. Pegasus Plus
I’ll be upfront—the Nike Pegasus Plus and Pegasus 41 share quite a few similarities, but there are some key differences that set them apart, especially when it comes to picking up the pace. Nike designed these two to complement each other, and they do so beautifully.
Pegasus 41: The Classic Workhorse
The Pegasus 41 is the latest installment of Nike’s iconic Pegasus line, and it sticks to its roots as a versatile daily trainer. It’s the go-to for those everyday runs when you just want to get out there and let your legs move. Whether you’re taking it easy or pushing the pace a little, the Pegasus 41 adapts.
This is the shoe for you if:
- You’re not chasing specific goals and just want to enjoy your run.
- You’re running by feel, letting your body dictate the pace.
- You’re having an off day and need something reliable to go slower.
- You’re feeling great and want to test the speed—no problem, the Pegasus can handle that too.
In short, the Pegasus 41 is that dependable all-rounder you reach for when you need a no-fuss, comfortable, and versatile run.
Related: Nike Pegasus vs. Brooks Ghost.
Pegasus Plus: The Speedy Sibling
Now, the Pegasus Plus? This shoe is built for speed. Think of it as the reincarnation of the short-lived, yet beloved, Pegasus Turbo although it still doesn’t perform at the level of the Turbo.
The Plus is not just a daily trainer—it’s a decent performance shoe designed for workouts, tempo runs, and threshold efforts even though it doesn’t come with a carbon plate.
If you’re aiming for faster, more focused running, the Pegasus Plus is your shoe of the two. It maximizes the ZoomX midsole to deliver that pop, making it ideal for:
- Tempo runs or threshold workouts where you’re pushing the pace.
- Faster, more aggressive runs when you want to feel the responsiveness of your shoes.
- Runners who need a non-plated option that still gives you that speed edge.
Complementary Roles
While the Pegasus 41 handles everything from easy days to mild uptempo runs, the Pegasus Plus shines when it’s time to kick it up a notch. Think of the Pegasus 41 as your trusty companion for any run, and the Pegasus Plus as your workout buddy when you’re ready to get serious
Let me go a little bit more into detail…
Where Both Shoes Shine
Technically, both the Pegasus 41 and Pegasus Plus are daily trainers, but let’s be real—there’s a noticeable gap in performance between them.
Take a look at the picture (pic 12.48). You’ll notice the orange or red zone along the line—this shows where each shoe truly finds its groove.
Pegasus 41: Your 80% Workhorse
For the Pegasus 41, the sweet spot is clear: it thrives in the easy-to-steady running range. If you follow the 80/20 rule of running—where 80% of your miles should be easy, and 20% are reserved for tougher efforts—the Pegasus 41 is built for that 80%.
It handles those easy and steady-paced runs like a champ. Sure, you can push it for a threshold run or even max effort, but that’s not really where this shoe feels at home.
It’ll get the job done, but its true comfort zone is when you’re taking it easy or cruising through steady miles.
Pegasus Plus: Your Go-To Performance Trainer
Since the Pegasus Plus leans more toward a performance-oriented trainer, its sweet spot falls right between steady and threshold paces.
This shoe thrives when it’s time to pick up the pace! Whether you’re tackling max effort workouts, reps, or intervals, the Pegasus Plus delivers brilliantly.
I’ve taken the Pegasus Plus into workouts where I typically rely on plated trainers, and you know what? It performed beautifully. Honestly, I felt no disadvantage without a carbon plate!
You can definitely throw in some tempo runs or fartleks with the Pegasus Plus. Just keep in mind that the ZoomX midsole might not respond as quickly as you’d find in a plated shoe.
But if you’re really looking to turn over your legs and move super fast, though, Nike has plenty of options like the Vaporfly, Streakfly, or Zoomfly to satisfy that need for speed.
While the Pegasus Plus can handle easy runs, it’s not in its element there. On slower days, it can feel a bit slappy—thanks to the outsole pattern and the shoe’s platform width. But as soon as you hit that steady threshold pace or faster, the Pegasus Plus truly comes alive!
That said, neither shoe is an absolute speed demon, but the Pegasus Plus stands out as a great non-plated alternative for neutral mechanics. It’s a fantastic option for those looking to up their game without going full carbon.
Related:
If you’re into Saucony, check out our latest comparison of the Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 vs. Pro 4.
Ride Comparison: ZoomX vs. React X
When it comes to ride, the ZoomX foam in the Pegasus Plus midsole truly takes the experience up a notch compared to the still-good-but-not-quite-there React X midsole with those Air Zoom pods found in the Pegasus 41.
Now, don’t get me wrong—React X isn’t a bad foam at all. But the ZoomX shines with its responsiveness and lightweight feel, giving the Pegasus Plus that extra versatility for faster paces.
The way React X is configured makes the Pegasus 41 more suited for easy runs. It prioritizes protection and comfort over energy return, which means it doesn’t give back much when you’re trying to sustain faster efforts.
While the Air Zoom pods add a bit of pop and snap, they don’t really deliver a significant boost from the forefoot comapred to ZoomX in the Plus.
Sure, you can handle intervals in the Pegasus 41, but I’ve found it shines brightest as a comfort shoe for easy miles. That’s where the Pegasus Plus stands apart. With a more dynamic forefoot, you get that pop and responsiveness when you pick up the pace.
I’ve tested the Pegasus Plus during an easy-to-steady progression run, and honestly, it felt effortless to ramp up the speed. Despite its 10mm drop, the transition remains smooth, thanks to the cushioning from the foam.
You can definitely cruise in the Plus at an easy pace, but it offers that extra speed if you are going to use it for sustained hard runs like longer intervals or tempo sessions.
Midsole Material Comparison
As I have already mentioned, the cushioning systems are where these two shoes really diverge, and it’s probably the most significant difference between them.
The Pegasus Plus features a one-piece ZoomX midsole, although it’s not quite the same version you’ll find in the Vaporfly or the Alphafly. Plus, there’s no plate or shank in this setup.
The formula of ZoomX used in the Pegasus Plus is more akin to what’s found in the Streakfly or the Invincible.
It’s a bit more rubberized, which gives it enhanced durability compared to the versions in those elite racing shoes.
However, while the ZoomX in the Pegasus Plus offers a good ride, it’s not as responsive or speed-focused as what you’ll experience in a super shoe like the Vaporfly. Nike intentionally dialed back the ZoomX here to cater to daily training needs, striking a balance between comfort and performance.
On the flip side, the Nike Pegasus 41 has a full React X midsole, which is Nike’s updated take on React foam. It’s airy, soft, and offers a cushioned feel. The Pegasus 41 still features two Zoom Air units—one in the forefoot and one in the heel.
In terms of stack height, the Pegasus 41 comes in at 37mm in the heel and 27mm in the forefoot, maintaining that classic 10mm drop.
Meanwhile, the Pegasus Plus has a slightly lower profile, with 34mm in the heel and 24mm in the forefoot, also preserving the 10mm drop.
I know some runners found the Pegasus 41 a bit too close to the ground for their liking, and the Pegasus Plus takes that even further with its lower stack height, bringing you even closer to the ground for a more grounded feel.
Related: Brooks Glycerin 21 vs. Saucony Triumph 22.
Pegasus vs. Pegasus Plus – Run Test
Over the years, I’ve probably run in every single Pegasus model, and it’s been a solid daily trainer that fits my running style like a glove.
The Pegasus Plus really impresses with its resilience. You sink into that ZoomX foam, which delivers a significant energy return, making every stride feel fun and lively.
It’s all about that pop you expect from ZoomX, packaged in a daily trainer. On the other hand, the Pegasus 41 offers a cushioned ride that’s more about comfort than speed.
I ended up loving the feel of the ZoomX in the Pegasus Plus, even if it turned out a bit firmer than I anticipated.
In contrast, React X is denser, so you don’t get the same level of sink or energy return, which makes it better for all-around running.
The Pegasus 41 feels plush, especially with its squishier heel, which makes it comfortable and reliable for everyday runs. But the Pegasus Plus? It gives you a lighter, nimbler sensation with a noticeable bounce off the forefoot.
While the Plus may not be quite as cushy or stable at the back as the Pegasus 41, it makes up for that with an extra dose of lightness and responsiveness for those faster runs.
I’ve taken the Pegasus Plus through its paces—long intervals, tempo runs, and even some long runs—and I was pleasantly surprised by how well it performed at every speed.
Whether I was cruising at an easy pace or ramping up for strides and intervals, the Pegasus Plus delivered consistently.
What stood out to me was how the shoe encouraged me to focus on my forefoot and optimize my gait. By tuning in to the energy return it offered, I truly began to appreciate the ride. The Pegasus Plus doesn’t just support your run; it enhances it, making each stride feel rewarding and efficient.
Drop and Geometry
Again, both the Pegasus and Pegasus Plus have a 10mm drop, but the feel of that drop varies between the two.
In the Pegasus Plus, the soft, sink-in feel of the ZoomX foam can give the sensation of a lower drop—more like 6-8mm.
In contrast, the Pegasus 41, with its firmer React X cushioning, leans toward the higher end, feeling more like an 8-10mm drop.
This difference makes sense given their designs: the Pegasus 41 is tailored for all runners, providing a more cushioned ride, while the Pegasus Plus is geared toward performance, lending itself to a slightly different sensation in the drop.
When it comes to geometry, the Pegasus Plus features a subtle forefoot rocker, offering a more contemporary ride largely due to its foam composition. Despite this modern touch, it still retains a traditional feel, making it approachable for a wide range of runners.
On the other hand, the Pegasus 41 embodies a classic daily trainer geometry. In fact, it’s one of the most traditional options you’ll find in 2024, which contributes to its popularity and comfort. This familiar design is part of what makes both shoes beloved staples in many runners’ rotations.
Weight
When it comes to weight, the difference is significant. The Pegasus Plus tips the scales at just 8.4 oz (238 grams) in a men’s size 9, making it a noticeably lighter option. In contrast, the Pegasus 41 weighs in at 10.0 oz (283 grams), positioning it on the heavier side of the spectrum.
While the Pegasus 41 is designed as an overbuilt daily trainer meant to tackle long distances and withstand numerous runs, the Pegasus Plus is crafted to be a lightweight performance trainer.
Although it may not be the absolute lightest shoe available, it fits snugly within the expected weight range for performance trainers. Runners will certainly feel the difference on foot, which can enhance the overall experience when picking up the pace.
Outsole
Design and Coverage
Both the Pegasus 41 and Pegasus Plus are designed to take you anywhere you want to go, and they both do it with full rubber coverage.
The Pegasus 41 features that classic waffle tread outsole, giving you solid grip and a touch of nostalgia with its iconic design. Sure, it has a little exposed foam, but that’s just part of its charm!
Now, the Pegasus Plus has a similar pattern but sheds some weight with a thinner rubber layer and a bit more exposed foam in the midfoot. Don’t worry, though; it still has excellent coverage in all the right places, especially at the forefoot and heel.
When you hit the pavement, you’ll notice that both shoes provide a familiar feel underfoot, with reliable grip that keeps you steady during those speedy sessions.
Speaking of grip, when it comes to running on those slippery wet drain covers, you definitely want to tread carefully with both shoes. Nike outsoles aren’t known for their stellar grip in those situations. But overall, I’d say the grip has been pretty decent.
That said, I’ve got to give the edge to the Pegasus 41. The outsole design and rubber coverage really shine here. Honestly, it might be one of the best outsoles we’ve seen since the 35 and 36.
The Pegasus Plus isn’t slouching, though; it does a solid job too. But I can’t shake the feeling that it could be a bit better. That big open space in the midfoot? It feels like a missed opportunity for better traction!
And if they had trimmed a bit of rubber from the heel and added a groove like the Pegasus 41, it might help with those heel strikes that can feel a tad slappy.
As for durability, I’m confident the Pegasus Plus will hold up just as well as any other Pegasus. I’ve taken both shoes on light trails without any issues, but watch out for sharp stones! You might just puncture that ZoomX in the midfoot, though I doubt it’ll impact your run too much.
Outsole Width Matters
When I measured the widths, I found there’s some clever engineering at work here.
(pic 6.37)
Both the Pegasus Plus and the Pegasus 41 are fairly wide, but the differences in where they’re widest tell a different story. The Pegasus Plus measures 11.6 cm in the forefoot, while the Pegasus 41 comes in at 11.2 cm.
The interesting part is that the widest point on the Pegasus Plus is way back, behind the ball of the foot, while the Pegasus 41 hits right at the ball.
As a forefoot striker, I find that the Pegasus 41 really gets me up on my toes, making for a smooth clean forefoot strike—perfect for training runs.
The Pegasus Plus, on the other hand, encourages a flatter stride, which means I get to engage more of that bouncy ZoomX foam eve, more. The result? A nice boost in energy return!
As for the waists and heels, they’re pretty similar, though the Pegasus 41 feels a bit wider and more stable in the heel area, which is always a plus for stability.
Talking about stability…
Which Pegasus Keeps You More Steady?
The Pegasus Plus might have that ZoomX in the midsole, but don’t worry—it’s not the soft and wobbly kind you find in some other shoes. You still get a nice, stable ride in a lightweight and nimble package.
Now, the Pegasus 41 takes stability up a notch. With its extra width and more pronounced sidewalls, it offers an even more stable feel. If you’re someone who needs a bit of heel guidance, for the first time ever, you’ll appreciate that the Pegasus 41 actually provides decent stability in the heel.
In contrast, the Pegasus Plus is more of a smooth, daily neutral ride. If you require any real stability, you might want to look elsewhere because the Plus isn’t designed for that.
Which Shoe Delivers a Better On-Foot Experience
The Pegasus 41 features an engineered mesh upper that really shines with its generous padding, especially around the tongue and heel.
This structured heel counter offers excellent support, making it one of my favorite Pegasus uppers in recent memory. It’s breathable and snug and wraps around your foot nicely.
However, some runners have reported that there’s less volume through the toe box, which leads to rubbing on the big toe—definitely something to consider if you have hammertoes for example.
On the flip side, the Pegasus Plus has a Flyknit upper, which brings a different vibe to the mix. It has decent padding at the back and an internal heel counter for stability, but the tongue is a bit minimal.
The pliability of the upper allows it to mold to your foot and give you a secure and comfortable fit—perfect for those fast-paced runs!
The Pegasus Plus features a thin and lightweight tongue, totally bringing that race-inspired edge to the shoe.
In comparison, the Pegasus 41 has a nicely padded, thicker tongue, characteristic of traditional daily trainers, which gives it a solid feel. This is yet another area where the Pegasus Plus trims down the weight compared to the Pegasus 41.
Surprisingly, the tongue on the Pegasus Plus isn’t gusseted, but the lace loop at the front was enough to stop it from going anywhere.
When it comes to the back of both shoes, both shoes have a similar Achilles flare and ankle collar, but the Pegasus 41 offers a slightly more comfortable fit around the heel.
All in all, if you’re already a fan of the Pegasus series, you’re likely to fall in love with the Pegasus Plus. It feels familiar while offering a fresh take on what you already love!
Lacing System: Premium Feel of the Pegasus Plus
The laces on the Pegasus Plus have a more premium feel to them—if that’s even a thing! The Pegasus 41 laces are a bit softer, which made me notice the difference.
It could just be my mind playing tricks, trying to justify the higher price tag of the Pegasus Plus, but I had zero issues with both laces—they stayed securely tied throughout my runs.
Breathability: Which Shoe Keeps Your Feet Cooler?
If you’re running in a hot climate, you might find that the tongue on the Pegasus 41 can feel a bit stifling at times. In contrast, the Pegasus Plus features a thinner, more breathable tongue that helps keep your feet cool.
While the filled-in stripe at the front of the Pegasus Plus does slightly limit airflow, the upper compensates with plenty of perforations throughout the shoe, ensuring you still get that much-needed breathability.
Width and Volume: Which Shoe Suits Your Feet?
I mentioned that the upper on the Pegasus 41 sits low across the top of the toe, which can feel restrictive, but surprisingly, there’s a bit of wiggle room in the forefoot.
If you compare the space between the top of the foam and the heel collar, you’ll notice it’s slightly narrower in the Pegasus 41, indicating less volume overall.
In contrast, the Pegasus Plus offers a higher fit, featuring an underlay around the toe box that keeps the upper off your foot. This design eliminates that annoying pressure on your toes you would get from the Pegasus 41.
So, if you tried the Pegasus 41 and found the volume through the toe box too low, the Pegasus Plus might feel like a breath of fresh air.
When it comes to width, it seems both shoes are built on the same last, which means you’ll find a similar forefoot width in each model.
However, there are some key differences to note…
The Pegasus Plus, with its sock-like Flyknit material, wraps around your foot nicely, making it a better option for those with slightly wider feet.
Plus, the Pegasus Plus features a slightly wider midsole platform, so you’re not going to spill over the midsole in the Pegasus Plus.
Both shoes offer a somewhat generous fit, but if you have truly wide feet, neither shoe is going to give the width you need and you’ll likely need to wait for the wider versions to be released.
If you’re already a fan of the Nike fit, the Pegasus Plus won’t let you down. On the other hand, if you have a narrower foot, the Pegasus 41 will wrap around your foot beautifully, providing a snug and comfortable fit.
Fit & Lockdown
First off, both shoes run pretty true to size, so you’re safe sticking with your regular running shoe size.
When it comes to midfoot lockdown, the Pegasus 41 has an edge with Nike’s Arch Lock system. This clever band wraps under your foot and provides a snug fit that keeps your foot locked in place.
It really shines compared to the Pegasus Plus, which also offers great lockdown but just doesn’t quite match the Pegasus 41’s performance.
In terms of the heel counters, both shoes have a solid and rigid structure, so you won’t experience any heel slippage in either model—something that’s always been a plus with Pegasus shoes!
One notable difference, though, is the shape of the forefoot. The Pegasus Plus has a more pointy design, making it a better fit if you have Morton’s toe (where the second toe is longer than the big toe) but not the best for runners with square feet for example.
Why Does Nike Have Two Pegasus Shoes?
So, why does Nike have not one but two Pegasus shoes? It’s all part of a cool restructuring of their running line!
It seems Nike’s going back to the basics with three core silhouettes for their training shoes:
- Nike Structure (for that structured cushioning) (Pegasus vs. Structure)
- Nike Pegasus (for the responsive cushioning we love)
- Nike Vomero (for a plush, cloud-like feel) (Pegasus vs. Vomero)
Each silhouette comes in three tiers to make things easy for us runners:
- Standard Tier: The go-to option for everyone at a base price.
- Plus Tier: Performance perks for an extra $30 to $40.
- Premium Tier: Packed with the latest tech or innovation, adding another $30 to $40 on top of the Plus.
Now, Nike’s doing this to clear up any confusion about pricing, which is great for us, the consumers. Plus, it gives them room to keep some shoes as they are. Take the Pegasus 41, for example—it’s a solid update that stays true to the Pegasus legacy.
And let’s be real—most of us love the Pegasus just the way it is! Nike recognizes that, while still wanting to innovate and keep things fresh in the lineup.
Now that we’ve explored the other two tiers in Nike’s lineup—the Plus and the Premium—it’s crystal clear how the Pegasus has evolved. The Plus is now officially Nike’s performance trainer, while the Premium takes the spotlight for technology and innovation.
So, think of the Pegasus 41 as the ultimate everyday trainer—it’s versatile and ready to tackle whatever you throw at it.
On the flip side, the Pegasus Plus is all about performance. It’s still a fantastic all-around shoe, but it’s lighter, more tailored, and loaded with materials designed for speed.
Now, let’s dive into the rich history of the Pegasus over the last five years!
Recent History of the Pegasus Series
The journey of the Pegasus series took a significant turn in 2019, marking the launch of the Pegasus 36, which many fans regard as the last good Pegasus. That same year introduced the beloved Pegasus Turbo 2—a favorite among runners that still sparks nostalgia and requests for a solid comeback.
Fast forward to 2020, and we welcomed the Pegasus 37 into the fold. This shoe stirred up quite a conversation, as many felt it signaled the end of the Turbo lineage.
However, I believe Nike’s intention was to merge the characteristics of the standard Pegasus and the Turbo, creating something fresh with the Pegasus 37.
This version was bold and aggressive with a responsiveness that teetered on the edge of a tempo shoe. While I found the Pegasus 37 to be an exceptional offering, it undeniably lost some of the versatility that had long defined the Pegasus lineage.
Over the next four years, Nike sought to recalibrate the Pegasus experience with the release of the Pegasus 38. The brand took a thoughtful approach, gradually softening the aggressive tendencies of its predecessor.
With the Pegasus 38, we saw a shift toward comfort as Nike adjusted the Air Zoom units and refined the upper for a more accommodating fit, ensuring the shoe catered to a broader range of runners without losing its performance edge.
In 2022, we welcomed the Pegasus 39, and I remember thinking it was Nike’s way of nudging back toward the beloved 36. Turns out, I might have been a bit off the mark! While the Pegasus 39 did reintroduce some versatility to the lineup, it still felt a tad too aggressive and narrow for many runners.
Then came the Pegasus 40 in 2023, which dialed things down even further, bringing in a more accommodating upper. It felt like we were inching closer to the comfort and performance of the Pegasus 36.
But when the Pegasus 41 dropped in 2024, I realized Nike had truly come full circle, almost replicating the magic of the Pegasus 36. Plus, they introduced the Pegasus Plus in the same year, adding another layer to the lineup!
What’s fascinating is that over the past four years, Nike has really circled back to where they started in 2019. So, if you were one of those runners who believed the Pegasus 36 was the last great iteration, you might just want to give the Pegasus 41 a shot—it captures that essence beautifully.
It’s worth noting that the Pegasus 41 isn’t just a continuation of the Pegasus 40. In fact, it feels like a departure from the characteristics of the 37, 38, 39, and 40. Those models were a bit more aggressive, narrower, and overly energized by their airbags.
When I think back to the Pegasus 36, I recall a neutral, flat shoe with a wide forefoot that offered a stable ride. It really encouraged me to dig in, push off the ground, and focus on my training. Now, with the Pegasus 41, that emphasis is back on you to do the work, and that’s why I love it.
While the 37 through 40 models had their perks, the 41 brings me right back to the feel of the shoes from 2018 or 2019. It’s like reuniting with an old friend!
Final Take: Pegasus 41 vs. Pegasus Plus
When it comes to daily training, both the Pegasus 41 and Pegasus Plus can get the job done, but I think the Pegasus Plus comes out on top as the lighter, nimbler option. It’s just a more responsive shoe overall compared to the 41.
Now, the Pegasus 41 isn’t the pure versatile workhorse it once was. While it can handle easy runs and long training sessions, it’s really best suited for those easy days.
However, I don’t think the Pegasus Plus is necessarily worth the extra money for everyone. If you are a new runner who just wants a shoe to be protective and comfortable for your first runs, the Pegasus 41 will serve you very well and you can pick it up at a lower price.
On the flip side, if you’re looking for that extra versatility in your runs, the Pegasus Plus is where you want to be. If you already have a plated training shoe in your lineup, the Pegasus 41 can serve as your easy day companion perfectly.
For those who want a shoe that feels light and flexible, getting out of your way while you run, the Pegasus Plus is definitely the way to go. But when we talk pure performance, it’s hard to argue against the Pegasus Plus being the superior pick.
In the grand scheme of things, the Pegasus 41 is a solid shoe, especially at its lower price point. However, if you stack it up against competitors coming in at the same price like the Topo Specter 2, you might start to wonder about the value of the Pegasus Plus. So, weigh your options and go with what feels right for your running needs!
All in all, both the Pegasus 41 and Pegasus Plus have their strengths, but if you’re after a lighter, more performance-oriented shoe, the Pegasus Plus edges ahead.
However, the Pegasus 41 is a solid, reliable option, especially if you’re looking for something more budget-friendly.
This pretty much wraps up this Nike Pegasus vs. Pegasus plus comparison. Which one do you think suits your running style? Do you already own a pair? Let me know in the comments below!
